The forest monks in
Asia are dhutanga bhikkhus, meaning ascetic monks. This manner of cultivation
was started by the Buddha. Living in the forest for most part of the year,
sleeping under the trees, subsisting on alms from villagers, and owning only
the barest requisites as they trek the forests, these are some highlights of
their ascetic practices. In a tranquil forest environment, they diligently
work hard in purifying their mind through rigorous meditation, strict personal
discipline and are always mindful of their Bodhi Resolve, that is to get enlightened
and get out of samsara, the cycle of birth and death.

Usually without books, or any modern
facilities, these dhutanga bhikkhus study the Dharma, practise it, and work
very hard to realize the essence of the Dharma, in order to attain enlightenment.

This page presents some of the teaching
and wisdom of these forest monks as well as other monks from the Theravada tradition
(the School of the Elders).